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VICE PRESIDENT INONGE MUTUKWA WINA MOURNS ZIMBABWE’S FIRST PRESIDENT THE LATE ROBERT MUGABE

PRESIDENT Edgar Lungu will be among other heads of state and world leaders to attend the burial of former Zimbabwe’s president Robert Mugabe on Sunday.

Speaking when she signed the book of condolences at the Zimbabwean Embassy yesterday, Vice-President Inonge Wina said Mr Mugabe was part of Zambia because he spent a lot of years in the country as a teacher before he started fighting for Zimbabwe’s liberty.

Mrs Wina described Mr Mugabe as a strong African leader who never minced his words.

“The African continent will be left with a gap of a Pan-Africanist who inspired a lot of leaders,” she said.

The Vice-President said Mr Mugabe instituted a sense of pride in many Africans.

She said Mr Mugabe was a proud defender of freedom and the independence he gained for his country.

“He will go down in history as one of the leading souls in Africa. Zimbabwe should know that they are not mourning alone but with Zambia,” she said.

Mrs Wina also wrote in the book of condolences and part of her message reads “As we lay to rest one of Africa’s most influential founding fathers and respected political figures, we pray that the gallant soul of the late comrade Robert Gabriel Mugabe may rest in eternal peace.”

And Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Zambia Gertrude Takawira thanked Government and all Zambians for the support rendered to Zimbabwe during the funeral its former president.

Meanwhile, Common Market for Eastern and Southern African (COMESA) secretary general Chileshe Kapwepwe said Mr Mugabe made a lot of contribution to Africa’s integration.

Ms Kapwepwe urged Africans not to forget contributions made by founding fathers because they have made Africa what it is today.

She said this after signing in the book of condolences.

“He was a founding father of COMESA and he made tremendous contribution towards African and regional integration, so we will remember him for his contribution.

“He stood up strongly for what he believed in a fearless and courageous manner,” she said.

Mr Mugabe, 95, who ruled the country for more than three decades died in Singapore last Friday and will be buried in Zimbabwe on Sunday.